The Imo State government in collaboration with the World Bank Assisted Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project, NEWMAP, has commenced work at erosion sites in the state.
Speaking during the official launching of the project at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Owerri recently, the Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha noted that Imo is one of the 7 States of the South-East and South-South Nigeria hit by erosion menace.
The governor who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of Imo State, Prof. Anthony Anwukah said government had appealed to the Federal Government for financial and other supports and finally attracted World Bank in providing financial and technical support.
“We can proudly say that the Rescue Mission Government, knowing the benefits of land reclamation and remediation did not waste any time in paying the Counterpart Fund. This project is launched in fulfillment of the processes for the full roll-off of the project,” he explained.
Prof. Anwuka said the Rescue Mission government believes that investing on the people is the import of true democracy and therefore hoped that the NEWMAP will positively impact not just in those areas where erosion has done severe havoc to our land but will enhance the lives of persons of the areas and the entire State.